Association for Biology Laboratory Education

Tools for Online Transition of Core Science Labs
    



Advances in Biology Laboratory Education, 2022, Volume 42

Mandy Biggers and Shazia Ahmed

https://doi.org/10.37590/able.v42.art55

Abstract

During spring 2020, fall 2021, and spring 2021 we transitioned our formerly face-to-face introductory biology lab for majors to an online format. We had many periods of trial and error and have learned quite a bit along the way. This paper shares the pros and cons of three different methods we used in our attempt to simulate hands-on instruction for our online students: (1) pre existing, prepackaged paid online labs, (2) pre-existing pre-packaged free online simulations, and (3) modifying our existing activities for students to do at home. We found a continuum of experiences in the instructional value, delivery method, ease of use, and student efficacy.

Keywords:  laboratory, online, virtual lab, Inquiry-based learning, simulations, biology

ViABLE (2021)